During the holidays, it’s hard not to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and sales and shopping and more, more, more, more, more!!  That’s probably why I haven’t set foot in a store in weeks. Well, except Target.  We’ve all been to Target, right?  I’ve mostly been poking around online, trying to keep my eyes open for gifts that will fit in with my new standards for clothing/accessory purchases, without totally breaking the bank.

Just like with my wardrobe, hunting for sustainable, ethical, organic, handmade, small business owned, and/or american-made items takes time.  It plain old forces me to slow down.  But now that Christmas is mere weeks away, it’s time to get serious about that shopping.  So here are a few small, simple things I’m digging this holiday season, all for under $80.

A. Hand-painted ornaments $39 (for 4)  I love ornaments as Christmas gifts!  It feels so personal hanging them on your tree each year when it’s from a friend. These are painted by Indian artisans and the overall company values of VivaTerra are pretty solid. You can get 20% right now with the code DECOR20.
B. Brass ring $48  The jewelry from LZZR is so cool.  A minimal, industrial look inspired by architecture and made right here in downtown Los Angeles.  All their brass rings are 40% off right now, so it’s a great time to pick one up for yourself a friend!
C. Pom-pom beanie $22  I have a love/hate relationship with American Apparel but bottom line – their clothing is cut, designed and sewn in the USA and I can get behind that, especially when there are so few companies with that standard.
D. Crystal pendant $49 When I read about Storyweaver Mercantile’s vision for source sustainability and the desire to partner with brands that offer fair wages to their artisans, I couldn’t believe how reasonable the prices were for their goods.  The shop is very small, but they have a few cute bags and jewelry left for the holidays.
E. Chunky wool scarf $68 Of course every smart shopper loves Everlane!  And what holiday gift list would be complete without a cozy scarf.  It looks so delish, I’d eat it up.
F. Pocket calendar $8 This would make a great stocking stuffer as we head into the new year.  Made in the USA.
G. Plaid slippers $58 I have a feeling Zady will become another staple in my wardrobe as we combat fast-fashion.  I love the look of these slippers, but they are running out of inventory fast.  So if you can’t get your hands on them, go for the cashmere fingerless gloves!
H. Felt monogrammed stocking $22 I think this would make such a sweet, personal gift.  Especially for a couple or family.  The stockings are a fair trade, handmade item and you could pair it with a couple of their felt ornaments too!
I. Passport case $75 (+$10 to monogram) For your favorite traveler.  And talk about quality yummy leather.

A couple other go-to items would be the Alex + Ani bangles, a Philosophy gift set, a fancy spa candle, or a nail polish set (all made in the good ol’ USofA). While it may not be possible to do all our Christmas shopping with better brands  – hello, Hot Wheels – we can still start taking small steps, putting more thought into what we are giving, and purchasing quality goods for those close to us.

Happy shopping!

What gifts do you plan on giving this year?